Which is better NVR or DVR?

Luke is the product manager of security company, he has a good knowledge of security cameras for home improvement. Since his company offers both DVR and NVR two kind of video surveillance system, many customers asked him which is better between them. Recently he published an article to explain the difference between DVR camera system and NVR camera system. If you don’t know how to choose between DVR system and NVR system, you may think this article is helpful.

Briefly speaking, choosing between a NVR system and a DVR system ultimately boils down to needs. If you have already installed an analog DVR camera system or hybrid systems, a HD DVR system is likely the best choice to upgrade your existing system or make an older system digital ready. It’s also a good choice if you are afraid of online hacking.

A NVR system is suitable for those people who want to use network cameras exclusively and wish to avoid costly wiring. Comparing the HD CCTV cameras, the IP cameras can work independently, they support higher resolution video transmission, meanwhile come with advanced features such as H.265/HEVC, smart video analytics. If remote access over the Internet is desired, the NVR system is a natural choice also. He concluded that the key to choose the best system is to understand your personal needs and preferences for features. If you know little about the video surveillance system, you can consult to a qualified expert.

DVR Systems

Cons:

• All cameras have to connect to the NVR, once the NVR fails or malfunctions, the entire system fails too.
• Analog cameras can not be accessible online. 
• Be compromised by cutting or accessing the physical wires of the system, and the signal is not encrypted to keep it safe from unauthorized viewing.
• Installation can be more costly and time-consuming, since each cameras need to run a coaxial cable to the DVR.
• Lower image resolution, only can achieve regular functions, doesn’t support intelligent video analysis (IVA)

Pros: 

• DVR systems are back-compatible with old analog CCTV systems – HD DVR systems adopting AHD, HDCVI, HDTVI technologies can be used to upgrade existing standard definition CCTV systems.
• DVR systems are more reliable since the system is hardwired, there is no danger of network outages or interference that may hinder IP network or wireless systems.
• Futher, they don’t rely on network to transmit video, DVR systems can not be hacked online.
• DVRs have a lower average cost than NVR systems

NVR Systems

Cons:

• Data transmission relies on network, can fail to record or experience interference if the network goes down or is affected by weather, obstructions or other devices.
• Exposed to online hacking over LAN or the Internet.
• Data transmission over network will consume a large amount of data and can effect network costs for data usage.
• Higher average cost than typical DVR systems

Pros:

• Being connected to the Ethernet cable, easy to install and no wiring needed.
• Processing from analog to digital takes place at camera level meaning that redundancy exists for a safer and more robust system.
• Can connect to the internet for remote viewing capabilities and multiple storage locations.
• Data over the system can be encrypted for better protection.
• Can record at greater IPS (image per second) levels.
• Allows cameras with advanced features such as motion detection and greater resolutions.

If you wish to know the prime advantages and disadvantages of IP camera, please read this article - IP/Network cameras vs AHD cctv cameras how to choose?